UC San Diego Warren Field Athletic House

La Jolla, California

Architect: Safdie Rabines Architects 925 Fort Stockton Drive San Diego, CA 92103

Taal Safdie, AIA, NCARB

Principal-in-Charge

General Contractor: BN Builders

Masonry Contractor: New Dimension Masonry, Inc.

Block Producer: ORCO Block & Hardscape

Owner: UC San Diego

©Photography: Ryan Hills

Architect’s Commentary: The Warren Field House is a 2,300-square-foot structure providing accommodations for UC San Diego’s Warren Athletic Field. The House is comprised of a secure equipment storage room with five individual equipment lockers, a training room with five taping tables, rehab equipment, a sports whirlpool, office facilities, a private consultation room, plus restroom facilities accessible from both indoors and out.

Why Masonry?

The Warren Field House and its security wall are constructed of white 8” wide x 6” tall x 16” long concrete masonry units (CMUs), which were selected for several reasons. Aesthetically, the CMUs provide a beautiful contrast to surrounding natural environs and the wood roofing. While the building is designed for functionality and ease of access, it is located in fire-prone Southern California, within a mile of the Pacific Ocean. The CMUs provide fireproof and salinity durability and also lifetime longevity, as CMUs are insusceptible to rotting, mold, and pest damage. Last but not least, the ease of maintenance and the ability to resist wear and tear from athletic use were also factors in the selection of CMUs.